The annual bacchanalia hosted by the journalistic organisation, now in its 139th year, traces its history to 1885 – that was the year President Grover Cleveland refused to attend. Every president since has come to at least one Gridiron dinner.
Biden veered quickly into the sombre, though, highlighting what he sees as a real threat to democracy should Trump – who continues to falsely claim the 2020 election was stolen – return to the White House.
Trump says US democracy will end if he loses 2024 election
Trump says US democracy will end if he loses 2024 election
“We live in an unprecedented moment in democracy,” he said. “An unprecedented moment for history. Democracy and freedom are literally under attack. Putin’s on the march in Europe.
“My predecessor bows down to him and says to him, ‘do whatever the hell you want.’”
Biden then introduced the Ukrainian ambassador, Oksana Markarova, and Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas.
“We will not bow down. They will not bow down, and I will not bow down,” he said.
Biden, dressed in white-tie attire as is the custom, brought his daughter Ashley.
Putin wins Russian election with 88 per cent of vote, exit poll shows
Putin wins Russian election with 88 per cent of vote, exit poll shows
Also speaking at the dinner were Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, and Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican.
“Good journalism holds a mirror up to society,” he said. “We need you.”
Biden and Harris were seated at the head table along with other administration officials and the foreign leaders, plus Gridiron president Dan Balz of The Washington Post newspaper.
The dinner was held at the Grand Hyatt. No photos or television cameras were permitted.
